CII-NSTL highlights defence opportunities for MSMEs
NSTL director Abraham Varughesenoted that the increasing indigenous content in manufacturing is essential to drive economic growth. He said that both large industries and MSMEs have a critical role to play in the indigenisation and export-oriented development of advanced marine systems and defence technologies.
He identified key concerns including access to bank credit, need for strategic financial planning, procurement of raw materials, logistics, and the rapid adoption of technology.
He urged MSMEs and startups to utilise the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, which provides grants of up to ₹50 crore for the development of defence and dual-use technologies currently unavailable in India.
G.K. Sahu, technology director, NSTL, highlighted the lab's continued success in partnering with Indian industries to develop and produce advanced underwater weapon systems and naval platforms, significantly enhancing the Indian Navy's capabilities.
Key technologies including torpedoes, decoys, stealth systems, and battery technologies have been successfully transferred to industries, which are now manufacturing and supplying these to the Indian Navy and friendly nations.
Mr. Sahu said that the DRDO's Technology Development Fund (TDF) is providing critical funding to MSMEs and startups to develop key defence technologies, fostering innovation and self-reliance in defence manufacturing. 'NSTL remains committed to empowering Indian industry, enhancing indigenous capability, and promoting defence exports,' said Dr Sahu.
Satyandra Vadavalli, convenor, MSME Panel, CII Visakhapatnam, said India's defence exports reached ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024–25, supplying to nearly 80 countries, with a target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029. A projected modernisation pipeline of $160–$165 billion over the next five years underscores the scale of opportunity.
J Srinivasa Raju, chairman, SIDM – Andhra Pradesh, encouraged greater private sector investment in R&D, international partnerships, and collaboration with academia.
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